Popular Colonie BBQ Restaurant Chain Getting Much Needed Overhaul

More changes are coming to the restaurant scene in the Capital Region. This time, a popular barbecue eatery is getting an overhaul.

Smokey Bones is making changes, and the Central Avenue location in Colonie is one of the few in New York that will stay open. The barbecue chain is cutting back nationwide as underperforming restaurants close or shift to a new concept.

Its parent company, Twin Hospitality Group, is putting more energy into Twin Peaks, a mountain lodge–style restaurant that has been showing stronger sales. That shift means fewer Smokey Bones locations overall, but the remaining ones are expected to get more attention.

At one point, Smokey Bones had more than 100 restaurants across the country. After the latest round of closures and rebranding, only a smaller group will continue to carry the Smokey Bones name, including Colonie.

For Capital Region fans, that’s good news. The Central Avenue spot is still serving ribs, wings, burgers, and all the barbecue favorites regulars know well.

The company is also bringing in new leadership. Ken Brendemihl, an industry veteran with experience at several national chains, is stepping in as president to help guide Smokey Bones into its next phase.

With a more focused operation and new leadership, the chain is aiming for long-term success. For now, Colonie remains one of the steady locations keeping the Smokey Bones flavor alive.